The titular motif of The Whalebone Theatre reflects several of the novel’s themes and central ideas. Cristabel’s transformation of a dead whale’s ribs into a theatrical space highlights the enduring spirit of creativity. Creating a magical outdoor theatre from a decaying carcass echoes the artistic process of turning raw material into something more meaningful. During World War II, the theatre signifies resilience in the face of adversity due to its changing, more practical function as a vegetable garden. Once the war is over, Cristabel’s decision to improve the theatrical space as she grieves for Digby echoes the rebuilding of the characters’ lives in the conflict’s aftermath. These developments emphasize The Transformative Force of War as the author suggests that a better society can be built from the ruins of loss and destruction.

The country estate of Chilcombe is both the key setting of the novel and a recurring motif. Through her depiction of the house and its grounds, Quinn explores The Complexities of Familial Bonds and examines the deep social changes that lead to the decline of the aristocracy. To that end, it soon becomes clear that the characters have a complex relationship with Chilcombe.